Lloyd Austin

“The safety and security of our democracy demands competent civilian control of our armed forces, the subordination of military power to the civil. I spent my entire life committed to that principle.”

“We want to see Russia weakened to the degree that it can't do the kinds of things that it has done in invading Ukraine.”

“We're a diverse nation, and we're going to remain a diverse nation.”

“I don't think war is inevitable. I maintain that.”

“When I first came to West Point, I had never been north of Georgia.”

“Our work to secure a more peaceful and prosperous future requires leadership and bold action. It demands an ironclad commitment to ourselves and to each other to ensure the alliance remains strong militarily.”

“We maintain the right to defend ourselves, and we won't hesitate to take the appropriate action.”

“Alliances are not a burden; they are a benefit to both our individual and our collective security.”

“Sergeant First Class 'Fox' Ballard took me in and taught me the way of the world. So I owe him and many others a great deal.”

“I can remember going to a bus station with my mother and looking at the restrooms that were male, female, and colored. That's, kind of, how we started - how I started as a child. And to rise to - to be able to rise to a position of secretary of defense in my lifetime is quite incredible.”

“You know, we want to lead with diplomacy in every case, but if deterrence falls and you must fight, you fight to win.”

“The job of the Department of Defense is to keep America safe from our enemies. But we can't do that if some of those enemies lie within our own ranks.”

“Over the years, the United States and our N.A.T.O. allies adapted to an ever-changing strategic landscape, and we sacrificed much to fulfill the principles outlined in the North Atlantic Treaty.”

“We also salute the bold steps taken by Japan and the Republic of Korea to work more closely together. Strong ties between Tokyo and Seoul are good for both countries - and for the region.”

“I intend to surround myself with and empower experienced, capable civilian leaders who will enable healthy civil-military relations, grounded in meaningful oversight.”

“You know, for decades, U.S. and R.O.K. service members have fought side-by-side to defend the ideals of freedom. This alliance is founded on that shared sacrifice.”

“I learned a thing or two about urban warfare from my time fighting in Iraq.”

“In accordance with the Taiwan Relations Act, you know, we're committed to helping Taiwan develop the capability to defend itself.”

“Throughout my career, I've also been incredibly fortunate to benefit from the support and mentorship of exceptional leaders, like General Colin Powell, Admiral Mike Mullen, and General Johnnie Wilson.”